maxcold 2mg/325mg/5mg tablet - Chlorpheniramine Maleate (2mg) + Paracetamol (325mg) medicine

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🏭 Roussel Laboratories Pvt Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Sep 25, 2026
⚠️ Hepatotoxicity Risk 📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Well-established for symptomatic relief of cold and allergy symptoms.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Sep 25, 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Blood in stool or vomit
  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Chest pain or difficulty breathing
  • Severe headache with visual changes
  • Sudden swelling of face, lips, or throat
  • Yellowing of skin or eyes
  • Decreased urine output
  • Unusual bruising or bleeding
  • Seizures
  • Severe dizziness or fainting

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is maxcold 2mg/325mg/5mg tablet used for?

This medicine is a combination of Chlorpheniramine Maleate (an antihistamine) and Paracetamol (a pain reliever and fever reducer). It is used to treat symptoms of common cold and allergies such as runny nose, sneezing, watery eyes, and mild fever. It is usually taken every 4-6 hours as needed, but do not exceed 6 tablets in 24 hours. It may cause drowsiness, so avoid driving. Consult a doctor before use.

  • Generic Name: Chlorpheniramine Maleate (2mg) + Paracetamol (325mg)
  • Manufacturer: Roussel Laboratories Pvt Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 maxcold 2mg/325mg/5mg tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा क्लोरफेनिरामाइन मेलिएट और पैरासिटामोल का संयोजन है। इसका उपयोग सर्दी-जुकाम, एलर्जी, नाक बहना, छींक आना, आंखों में पानी आना और हल्के बुखार व दर्द से राहत के लिए किया जाता है। यह दवा एलर्जी के लक्षणों को कम करने में मदद करती है। इसे डॉक्टर की सलाह के अनुसार ही लें।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में नींद आना, चक्कर आना, मुंह सूखना, धुंधली दृष्टि, जी मिचलाना और कब्ज शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं लेकिन एलर्जी, सांस लेने में कठिनाई, या यकृत की क्षति हो सकती है। यदि कोई असामान्य लक्षण दिखे तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें। खुराक से अधिक न लें। दवा लेने के बाद वाहन चलाने या मशीन चलाने से बचें क्योंकि इससे नींद आ सकती है। शराब का सेवन न करें। यदि आप गर्भवती हैं या स्तनपान करा रही हैं तो डॉक्टर से सलाह लें। बच्चों को डॉक्टर की सलाह के बिना न दें।

💡 Did You Know? India is the largest provider of generic medicines globally, supplying over 50% of global vaccine demand.

💊 maxcold 2mg/325mg/5mg tablet Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Common cold","description":"Relieves runny nose, sneezing, watery eyes, and mild fever associated with common cold.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Allergic rhinitis","description":"Reduces sneezing, rhinorrhea, and itching of nose and eyes due to allergies.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Urticaria","description":"Provides symptomatic relief from itching and rash in allergic skin conditions.","evidence":"Moderate"},{"condition":"Mild pain and fever","description":"Paracetamol component helps reduce mild to moderate pain and fever.","evidence":"Well-established"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Insomnia","description":"Sometimes used off-label for its sedative effects to promote sleep, but not recommended due to side effects.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Motion sickness","description":"Chlorpheniramine may be used off-label for motion sickness, but other agents are preferred.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Common cold and allergic rhinitis

Also treats: Urticaria, Allergic conjunctivitis, Mild pain and fever

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Chlorpheniramine Maleate (2mg) + Paracetamol (325mg)
Brand Namemaxcold 2mg/325mg/5mg tablet
ManufacturerRoussel Laboratories Pvt Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassRESPIRATORY
Action Class
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Protect from light and moisture. Keep in a cool, dry place.
Shelf Life24 months from the date of manufacture.
WHO GuidelineNot established from the available information.
ICMR GuidelineNot established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Take this medicine with food or milk to reduce stomach upset.
2
Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you.
3
Do not consume alcohol while taking this medicine due to increased risk of drowsiness and liver damage.
4
Do not exceed the recommended dose of paracetamol; overdose can cause severe liver damage.
5
Consult your doctor if symptoms persist beyond 7 days or worsen.
6
Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
7
Do not use this medicine for self-medication in children under 12 years without medical advice.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
Runny nose
This medicine is commonly used for this symptom.
Likely Use
✅
Sneezing
This medicine helps relieve sneezing due to allergies.
Likely Use
✅
Watery eyes
This medicine reduces watery eyes from allergies.
Likely Use
✅
Mild fever
Paracetamol component helps reduce fever.
Likely Use
✅
Body ache
Paracetamol provides mild pain relief.
Likely Use
❌
Severe headache
This medicine is not intended for severe headaches; consult a doctor.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionChlorpheniramine is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. Paracetamol is also rapidly and completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Food may slightly delay the absorption of paracetamol but does not significantly affect the extent of absorption.
DistributionChlorpheniramine is widely distributed throughout the body, including the central nervous system. Paracetamol distributes rapidly into most body tissues. Both drugs cross the placenta and are excreted in breast milk.
Protein BindingChlorpheniramine is approximately 70% bound to plasma proteins. Paracetamol is only about 10-25% bound to plasma proteins.
MetabolismChlorpheniramine is metabolized in the liver primarily by cytochrome P450 enzymes, including CYP2D6, to inactive metabolites. Paracetamol is metabolized in the liver via glucuronidation and sulfation; a small fraction is metabolized by CYP2E1 to a toxic intermediate (NAPQI) that is normally detoxified by glutathione.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of chlorpheniramine is approximately 12-15 hours in adults. Paracetamol has a half-life of about 2-3 hours in adults with normal liver function.
ExcretionChlorpheniramine and its metabolites are excreted mainly in the urine. Paracetamol metabolites are excreted primarily in the urine as glucuronide and sulfate conjugates.
BioavailabilityChlorpheniramine has a bioavailability of about 25-50% due to first-pass metabolism. Paracetamol has a high oral bioavailability of about 80-100%.
Onset of ActionChlorpheniramine onset of action is about 30-60 minutes after oral administration. Paracetamol onset of action is about 30-60 minutes for fever and pain relief.
Peak Plasma TimeChlorpheniramine peak plasma concentration occurs about 2-6 hours after oral administration. Paracetamol peak plasma concentration occurs within 0.5-2 hours after oral administration.
Duration of ActionChlorpheniramine duration of action is about 4-6 hours, but sedative effects may last longer. Paracetamol duration of action is about 4-6 hours.

How It Works

This medicine combines two active ingredients. Chlorpheniramine Maleate is a first-generation antihistamine that competitively blocks histamine H1 receptors, reducing allergic responses such as sneezing, runny nose, and itching. It also has anticholinergic properties that contribute to dry mouth and drowsiness. Paracetamol (acetaminophen) acts primarily in the central nervous system by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis, which helps reduce fever and relieve mild to moderate pain. The combination provides symptomatic relief from cold and allergy symptoms.

Mechanism Steps

1
Histamine H1 receptor blockade: Chlorpheniramine binds to H1 receptors on effector cells, preventing histamine from triggering allergic symptoms such as sneezing, itching, and vasodilation.
2
Anticholinergic action: Chlorpheniramine also blocks muscarinic receptors, reducing secretions and causing dry mouth, but this contributes to side effects like drowsiness.
3
Central prostaglandin inhibition: Paracetamol inhibits prostaglandin synthesis in the brain, which lowers fever and reduces pain perception.
4
Symptom relief: The combined effects lead to reduction in runny nose, sneezing, watery eyes, fever, and body ache.

💡 How to Take maxcold 2mg/325mg/5mg tablet

Strength: Each tablet contains Chlorpheniramine Maleate 2 mg and Paracetamol 325 mg.

1Take this medicine orally with a full glass of water.
2Take with food or milk to reduce stomach upset.
3Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush or chew.
4Follow the prescribed dose and duration.
5Do not take more than the recommended dose.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose of this medicine is 1 tablet taken orally every 4 to 6 hours as needed for symptoms, not to exceed 6 tablets in 24 hours. However, the dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. Do not exceed the recommended dose. Use for the shortest duration necessary.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician. This medicine is not recommended for children under 12 years of age unless directed by a doctor.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may be more sensitive to the side effects of chlorpheniramine, especially drowsiness, dizziness, and anticholinergic effects. Use with caution and consider lower doses. Consult a doctor for appropriate dosing.
Renal ImpairmentUse with caution in patients with renal impairment. Dose adjustment may be necessary. Consult a doctor.
Hepatic ImpairmentUse with caution in patients with hepatic impairment. Paracetamol dose should be reduced or avoided in severe liver disease. Consult a doctor.
Maximum Daily DoseMaximum daily dose: Chlorpheniramine Maleate 24 mg (12 tablets) and Paracetamol 3900 mg (12 tablets) in 24 hours. However, do not exceed 6 tablets in 24 hours unless directed by a doctor.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Take with meals or milk
Reduces stomach upset and nausea.
Alcohol
Avoid
Increases drowsiness and risk of liver damage.
Caffeine
Moderate intake
May reduce drowsiness but can increase jitteriness.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of maxcold 2mg/325mg/5mg tablet

✅ Common Side Effects

Drowsiness (Common (10-20%))
Avoid driving or operating machinery. If persistent, consult your doctor.
Dry mouth (Common (5-10%))
Sip water frequently or chew sugarless gum. Consult doctor if severe.
Dizziness (Common (5-10%))
Rise slowly from sitting or lying position. Avoid alcohol.
Nausea (Uncommon (1-5%))
Take with food or milk to reduce stomach upset.
Constipation (Uncommon (1-5%))
Increase fiber and fluid intake. Consult doctor if persistent.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience rash, swelling of face/lips/throat, or difficulty breathing.
Liver damage (paracetamol overdose) (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek emergency care if you suspect overdose, even if you feel well. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and yellowing of skin or eyes.
Blood disorders (agranulocytosis, thrombocytopenia) (Very rare (<0.01%))
Report unusual bruising, bleeding, or signs of infection to your doctor immediately.
Seizures (Very rare (<0.01%))
Seek immediate medical help if seizures occur.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Photosensitivity
Avoid excessive sun exposure and use sunscreen.
Hepatotoxicity
Monitor for jaundice, dark urine, or abdominal pain. Seek medical attention.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
MAOIs Major
Alcohol Major
Warfarin Major
CNS depressants Moderate
Anticholinergics Moderate
Enzyme inducers Moderate
Antihypertensives Minor
Diuretics Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
  • Alcohol
  • Warfarin

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • CNS depressants (e.g., benzodiazepines, opioids, sedatives)
  • Anticholinergic drugs (e.g., atropine, tricyclic antidepressants)
  • Enzyme inducers (e.g., carbamazepine, phenytoin, rifampin)

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol should be avoided while taking this medicine because it can increase drowsiness, dizziness, and the risk of liver damage from paracetamol. Combining alcohol with paracetamol can lead to severe hepatotoxicity, especially with chronic use or overdose.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Hypersensitivity to chlorpheniramine, paracetamol, or any component of the formulation","Newborns and premature infants","Nursing mothers","Severe liver disease or severe active liver disease","Severe kidney disease","Narrow-angle glaucoma","Urinary retention","Severe asthma","MAOI therapy within 14 days"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["May cause drowsiness; avoid driving or operating machinery.","Avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants.","Do not exceed recommended dose of paracetamol; risk of severe liver damage.","Use with caution in elderly and children; may cause paradoxical excitation.","Consult doctor if symptoms persist beyond 7 days or worsen.","Do not use for self-medication in pregnancy or breastfeeding without medical advice.","May cause dry mouth, constipation, and urinary retention; caution in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia.","May interfere with allergy skin tests; discontinue 4 days before testing."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Chlorpheniramine and paracetamol are excreted in breast milk. Chlorpheniramine may cause drowsiness in nursing infants. Use with caution and consult a doctor before use. Paracetamol is generally considered safe during breastfeeding.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose of this medicine can cause severe liver damage due to paracetamol and anticholinergic toxicity from chlorpheniramine. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, drowsiness, confusion, seizures, and arrhythmias. Seek immediate medical attention. Treatment includes gastric lavage if within 1-2 hours, administration of activated charcoal, and acetylcysteine as antidote for paracetamol toxicity. Supportive care for chlorpheniramine overdose includes management of seizures, arrhythmias, and anticholinergic effects. Monitor liver and renal function.

⏰ Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not exceed the recommended dose. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you. Do not consume alcohol while taking this medicine as it can increase drowsiness and the risk of liver damage. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Do not use this medicine for longer than directed without consulting your doctor. Keep out of reach of children. If you have liver or kidney disease, use with caution and only under medical supervision. Do not take other products containing paracetamol while on this medicine to avoid overdose.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients are more sensitive to the side effects of chlorpheniramine, such as drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, and anticholinergic effects like dry mouth, constipation, and urinary retention. Use with caution and consider lower doses. Consult a doctor for appropriate dosing.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before taking this medicine. Chlorpheniramine and paracetamol are generally considered safe in pregnancy but should be used only if clearly needed and under medical supervision. Avoid use in the first trimester if possible.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

After surgery, consult your doctor before taking this medicine. It may interact with anesthetics and other medications. Paracetamol may be used for pain relief but follow your surgeon's advice.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist if you are taking this medicine before any dental procedure. It may cause dry mouth and interact with other medications used during dental work.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Stay well hydrated to help thin mucus and relieve congestion.
🥗
Get plenty of rest to support your immune system.
😴
Use a humidifier to ease dry air irritation.
💧
Avoid known allergens such as dust, pollen, and pet dander.
🧘
Wash your hands frequently to prevent spreading infections.
🌞
Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

This medicine may cause drowsiness and dizziness. Avoid strenuous exercise or activities requiring alertness until you know how the medicine affects you. If you exercise, do so with caution and stay hydrated.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Drink warm fluids like soups and herbal teas.
Include vitamin C-rich foods such as oranges and lemons.
Avoid heavy, oily, and spicy foods that may upset your stomach.
Eat light, easily digestible meals.
Avoid alcohol and caffeine in excess.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine can cause drowsiness, which may affect your ability to drive, operate machinery, or perform tasks requiring mental alertness. It is advisable to avoid such activities until you know how the medicine affects you. Inform your employer if your work involves operating heavy machinery.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Stop taking this medicine and consult your doctor if your symptoms do not improve within 7 days, if they worsen, or if you experience any serious side effects. Do not stop abruptly if you have been taking it regularly for a long time without medical advice.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine should be avoided unless prescribed by a doctor. Prolonged use of chlorpheniramine may lead to tolerance, dependence, and anticholinergic side effects. Chronic paracetamol use can increase the risk of liver and kidney damage, especially with alcohol or other hepatotoxic drugs. Regular monitoring of liver and kidney function may be required. Consult your doctor if you need to use this medicine for more than 7 days.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Saline nasal rinse

Helps relieve nasal congestion and runny nose without medication.

Evidence: Well-established
Steam inhalation

Can help loosen mucus and ease breathing.

Evidence: Limited
Antihistamine nasal sprays

Alternative for allergic rhinitis with fewer systemic side effects.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

This medicine does not interact with vaccines. However, if you are scheduled for allergy skin testing, discontinue this medicine at least 4 days before the test as it may interfere with results.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (15-30°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate unless specified

✅ DO

Keep in original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep away from direct sunlight

❌ DON'T

Do not store in bathroom cabinet

✅ DO

Keep out of reach of children

❌ DON'T

Do not use after expiry date

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

When traveling, carry this medicine in its original packaging with a copy of your prescription. Store at room temperature and protect from light and moisture. If crossing time zones, adjust dosing schedule accordingly, but do not exceed the maximum daily dose. Check customs regulations for carrying medications. Keep a list of your medications with you in case of emergency.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 35-year-old woman with seasonal allergic rhinitis
She started taking this medicine as prescribed for her sneezing and runny nose. Within an hour, her symptoms improved significantly. She experienced mild drowsiness, so she took it at bedtime. She was advised not to drive after taking it.
💡 Lesson: Taking this medicine at bedtime can help manage drowsiness while providing symptom relief.
👤 A 50-year-old man with common cold and mild fever
He took this medicine every 6 hours for his cold symptoms. His fever subsided and body ache reduced. He was careful not to exceed the recommended dose and avoided alcohol. He consulted his doctor after 5 days as symptoms persisted.
💡 Lesson: Adhering to the recommended dose and seeking medical advice if symptoms persist is important.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: This medicine usually starts working within 30-60 minutes after oral administration.

Q: Can I take this medicine on an empty stomach?

A: It is best taken with food or milk to reduce stomach upset.

Q: What should I do if I miss a dose?

A: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double dose.

Q: Is this medicine safe for children?

A: This medicine is not recommended for children under 12 years unless directed by a doctor. Consult a pediatrician for appropriate dosing.

Q: Can I take this medicine with alcohol?

A: No, alcohol should be avoided as it increases drowsiness and the risk of liver damage from paracetamol.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my kidney function?
  • Can I drive after taking this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?
  • Is it safe during pregnancy?
  • Can I take it with other cold medicines?

🔄 Substitutes for maxcold 2mg/325mg/5mg tablet

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: This medicine can cure the common cold.
    Fact: This medicine only relieves symptoms; it does not cure the underlying viral infection.
  • Myth: It is safe to take this medicine with alcohol.
    Fact: Alcohol increases drowsiness and the risk of liver damage from paracetamol.
  • Myth: This medicine is safe for children under 12.
    Fact: It is not recommended for children under 12 unless directed by a doctor.
  • Myth: You can take this medicine long-term for allergies.
    Fact: Long-term use should be under medical supervision due to potential side effects.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Chlorpheniramine Maleate + Paracetamol tablet

Brand Alternatives

  • Defrost Tablet

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"This medicine","composition":"Chlorpheniramine 2mg + Paracetamol 325mg","onset":"30-60 min","sedation":"High","duration":"4-6 hours"},{"medicine":"Cetirizine + Paracetamol","composition":"Cetirizine 5mg + Paracetamol 325mg","onset":"30-60 min","sedation":"Low","duration":"12-24 hours"},{"medicine":"Levocetirizine + Paracetamol","composition":"Levocetirizine 5mg + Paracetamol 325mg","onset":"30-60 min","sedation":"Low","duration":"12-24 hours"}]

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